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Fierce 2017 Workplace Predictions

It’s that time again. Each year, top leaders within organizations are forced to address issues that take place both internally with the world as a whole. 2016 was no exception. From political climate shifts to new industry disruptors, change is continuing to be the new “normal” in the workplace.

When we look into 2017, we see:

Diversity and inclusion initiatives and programs will be expanded: Whatever your political views entail, there is no denying the great divide that has taken over much of our country due to this year's presidential election. This confluence of beliefs can create issues in the workplace if individual workers feel marginalized, unsupported, or even fearful. Taking control of this conversation is key for organizations to not only maintain the well-being of their employees, but to ensure that their workplace is one of acceptance across the board. Fierce anticipates that in the coming year there will be a heightened focus on diversity and inclusion programs both within, and in addition to, existing training curriculum.

Change leadership will be incorporated into all levels of the company: In the fast-paced world we live in today, change is inevitable – from structural shifts to leadership changes to industry disruption. These can be significant transformations or several small adjustments over time. Historically, organizations have created change management teams or individuals in charge of getting a company or team through these efforts, yet data shows that 70% of change initiatives fail. In 2017, Fierce predicts a fundamental transference of expertise from a singular team to a critical skill for every leader within an organization to master.

The role of conversations will gain emphasis in performance management: The once-a-year review is gone for good, however many employees, millennials in particular, are looking for more action-based feedback from their employers, on an as-needed basis. In addition to the uptick in data-driven reviews, Fierce predicts that in 2017 more organizations will focus on the competency of conversations – from coaching to feedback to confrontation. The goal is to empower individuals to obtain their goals through initiating conversations to ensure they receive what they need, when they need it.